Bucs Face Stiff Attack By Panthers

Mainland High officials are planning a special homecoming weekend in honor of former football coach Spike Welshinger. But in selecting an opponent for such an occasion, the criteria should read something along the lines of ''must not be able to cross the 50-yard line if given the ball on the 49,'' and ''couldn't score even if the Bucs' trumpet section was playing defense.''

Palatka, the guest team for tonight's Memorial Stadium game, doesn't meet those requirements. In fact, the Panthers may be the toughest opponent the Bucs have faced this year.

Don't be deceived by their 2-2 record. After close early season losses to Gainesville Eastside (13-7) and Orange Park (also 13-7), the traditionally strong Panthers have rebounded with convincing victories over Spruce Creek (28-13) and Jacksonville Engelwood (34-12).

''They have a sound football team. They do things well,'' said Mainland Coach Ted Leasor. ''They can beat you if you don't play well against them.''

Palatka Coach Jim McCool had a similar evaluation of the Bucs.

''I think they're the kind of team we're not going to be able to make any mistakes against. We can't beat ourselves and beat them, too,'' McCool said.

McCool said the Panthers have a more balanced offensive attack.

But McCool is concerned about Mainland's big-play offense, led by quarterback Brian Morris and receivers Clarence Siler and Terry Anthony. Morris is leading all quarterbacks in Central Florida with 629 yards passing on 43 completions and Siler leads all receivers with 253 yards on 17 receptions.

In other games around the county tonight, DeLand will make its fifth try for its first victory when it hosts Orange Park, Father Lopez will try to return to its winning ways at Eustis, New Smyrna Beach travels to Melbourne and Pierson Taylor will take on Melbourne Central Catholic.